R.C.I.A./C. is the Rite of the Christian Initiation of Adults/Children, where adults and/or children are prepared for Baptism and reception into the Catholic Church, in several stages. These four stages are the
When does it start and what does it involve? The four stages of Pre-Catechumenate, Catechumenate, Purification and Enlightenment, and Mystagogia mark the convert's journey which begins in the fall, and ends on Easter vigil (Saturday before Easter). The journey requires much prayer, active participation in weekly meetings, and commitment of time necessary to reach the journey's end: receiving the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist) at the Easter vigil.
Further
information -- please contact the parish Director of Religious
Education, telephone number
Why is this Rite of Initiation needed? Church Fathers have always seen the need to properly educate, instruct and prepare converts to Christianity. From early on, the name catechesis was given to the totality of the Church's efforts to educate children, young people and adults in the teaching of Christian doctrine, given in an organic, systematic way, with a view to initiating the hearers into the fullness of Christian life.
Pre-Catechumenate
Pre-Catechumenate - this first stage is to help a person make a decision about whether to become a catechumenate, i.e. formal preparation for full initiation in the Sacraments of the Church. This is a period of prayer, reflection, discernment and questioning. If the person decides that they do want to continue, s/he must request acceptance into the second stage - the Catechumenate.
Catechumenate - this second stage is for formal preparation to receive the Sacraments of Initiation, which will be received during ceremonies during the Easter vigil. This is a time of introduction to the liturgical life of the Church. During this time the Catechumen is assisted in understanding the teachings of the Church, and s/he learns more about the Christian community, through liturgical participation, Scripture study, and discussion. They are encouraged to pray with the faithful, and spend time in meditation and reflection.
Purification and Enlightenment - this third stage is a period of intense spiritual preparation which occurs during the six weeks of Lent. This stage begins with the Rite of Election, by which the Catechumen, now referred to as an Elect, is accepted for full membership into the Church. This third stage comes to a climax at the Easter vigil, when the Elect receive the Sacraments of Initiation. At this time, they are welcomed by the community assembled to celebrate the central mysteries of faith.
Mystagogia - this fourth and final stage should be regarded as a continuing stage. Mystagogia helps the Neophyte (i.e. the Newly Baptized, the Newly-Professed, or the Newly-Received) enter into a community of adults who are committed to continuing their faith. The Neophytes and the Newly-Professed are encouraged to deepen their understanding of the mysteries of their faith by regularly sharing in the Sacraments, especially Holy Eucharist, and to continue reading and studying Scripture. They should become aware of the opportunities for Christian service, and find ways to fulfill the Christian commitment to serve.
Photographic images are Copyright @ 1994-1995 by Nicholas Pioch, curator of the WebMuseum--#1: Leonardo Da Vinci; #2: Rogier van der Weyden; #3:Velazquez: #4: El Greco; #5: Titian; #6: Burne-Jones. see http://sunsite.unc.edu/wm/
For the current RCIA meeting schedule and events - please see the weekly bulletin.
